Ukrainian resilience remains strong as war enters fifth year

"The Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) published a poll in early February examining Ukrainians' attitudes towards the war. The survey was conducted in late January, when massive Russian attacks on energy facilities caused power outages and disrupted heating and water systems across the country, particularly in Kyiv. These strikes were happening at a time when temperatures dropped as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius."

"The KIIS poll found that 88% of respondents thought Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy system were designed to force the country to surrender. Yet, 65% of those interviewed said they were prepared to tough it out as long as necessary. Several months earlier, in September and December 2025, some 62% had said the same. "This January didn't make me more determined and angry, because I've been very determined and angry since 2022," Julia, a Kyiv resident, told DW."

""My anger helps me to remain steadfast, but also the knowledge that there is no other choice. Anything other than standing firm would be much worse," Julia said. Justice and survival One of the most important factors strengthening people's resilience is the realization that Russia's war against Ukraine is an existential one, said KIIS head Anton Hruschezkyj. For the Ukrainians, he explained, the war is not just about justice, but about sheer survival."

The KIIS poll conducted in late January found 88% of respondents believed Russian attacks on energy infrastructure aimed to force Ukraine to surrender, while 65% said they were prepared to endure the disruptions as long as necessary. Massive strikes caused power outages and disrupted heating and water systems across the country during temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. Many civilians report long-standing determination and anger since 2022, with family members deployed to the front. KIIS head Anton Hruschezkyj said resilience remains high because the war is perceived as existential, involving survival as well as justice. Many soldiers report insufficient time to recover from fighting.

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